2026 National Children’s Day: Ondo Govt Seeks Stronger Collaboration on Child Welfare
The Ondo State Government has called for stronger collaboration among stakeholders to address child abuse, trafficking, bullying, and other social challenges capable of preventing children from attaining their full potential.
The Honourable Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Dr. Seun Osamaye, made the call during a press briefing and stakeholders’ engagement held at the Ministry’s Women Development and Skills Acquisition Centre in Akure as part of activities for the 2026 National Children’s Day celebration.
Speaking at the event, Dr. Osamaye appreciated Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa for his unwavering support for child welfare and also commended the First Lady, Mrs. Oluwaseun Aiyedatiwa, development partners, security agencies, civil society organisations, and religious leaders for their commitment to child development and protection.
She described the National Children’s Day celebration as more than a ceremonial event, noting that it serves as a reminder of the collective responsibility to nurture, protect, educate, and empower every child to become a responsible member of society.
According to her, challenges such as child abuse, neglect, trafficking, child labour, abandonment, and poor access to quality education continue to threaten the future of many children, thereby requiring urgent and collective action from all stakeholders.
Dr. Osamaye stated that the theme of this year’s celebration, “Future Now: Promoting Inclusion for Every Nigerian Child,” calls for inclusive policies and programmes that ensure no child is left behind regardless of gender, disability, religion, ethnicity, or socio-economic background.
She reaffirmed the commitment of Governor Aiyedatiwa’s administration to policies and programmes that prioritise child protection, quality education, healthcare delivery, social inclusion, and the overall well-being of children, women, and vulnerable persons across the state.
The Commissioner disclosed that activities lined up for the celebration include a sitting of the State Children’s Parliament with the Governor, oratory competitions, talent hunts, cultural displays, march-past exercises, awareness campaigns, and interactive sessions for children.
In his goodwill message, the Commissioner for Education, Prof. Igbekele Ajibefun, represented by Dr. Yomi Akinrinmade, stressed the need for policies that prioritise child healthcare, safety, quality education, and skills development, while also calling for stronger security measures in schools across the state.
Also speaking, representatives of the NSCDC, the Ondo State Contributory Health Commission, and Professor Bridget Awosika of Adeyemi Federal University of Education emphasised the need for collective efforts in protecting children’s rights, improving healthcare access, supporting children with disabilities, and ensuring equal opportunities for all children irrespective of physical or social challenges.
